Ubisoft Announces Halifax Studio Closure
French video game publisher Ubisoft has announced the closure of its development studio in Halifax, Nova Scotia, a move that will directly impact 71 employees. The company described the shutdown as a 'difficult decision' in a statement released on January 07, 2026.
The Halifax studio is one of several Canadian offices for the multinational gaming giant, known for franchises like Assassin's Creed and Far Cry. This closure represents a significant contraction of its operations in Atlantic Canada.
Impact on the Local Tech Landscape
The loss of 71 positions is a notable blow to the regional technology and creative sectors. Nova Scotia has been actively cultivating its digital media and game development industry, making this corporate pullback a setback for local job growth in the field.
While Ubisoft has not provided extensive public details on the reasoning behind the closure, such decisions are often tied to corporate restructuring, shifting project portfolios, and broader economic pressures within the competitive gaming industry.
Broader Context and Next Steps
The announcement adds to a series of layoffs and studio consolidations witnessed across the global tech and gaming sectors in recent years. For the affected workers in Halifax, the focus will now shift to severance packages, outplacement services, and potential opportunities within Canada's other game development hubs.
Local economic development officials will likely be assessing the impact and exploring ways to support the displaced talent. The closure underscores the volatile nature of the tech industry, even for established markets within Canada.
